Trial of Strength: War on the Eastern Front 1941-45 (1985)

Trial of Strength

Trial of Strength is a strategic level board wargame set in the Eastern Front of WWII, originally published by Panther Games in Australia in 1985. The game was designed by Dave O’Connor and employs a novel and sophisticated integrated movement and combat system called CLIMACS. The game is played on a hexagon-style 1:4,000,000 scale map of Eastern Europe, with each hex representing 72 kilometers (45 miles) from side to side.

Why is Trial of Strength Popular?

Trial of Strength is significant because it allows players to simulate the Trial of Strength between the two WWII superpowers of Germany and the Soviet Union with great emphasis on maintaining initiative and momentum and rewarding sound battle plans. The game is also known for its novel and sophisticated integrated movement and combat system called CLIMACS.

Game Components of Trial of Strength: War on the Eastern Front 1941-45

Map: A hexagon-style 1:4,000,000 scale map of Eastern Europe, with each hex representing 72 kilometres (45 miles) from side to side.

Units: Corps of the Axis and armies for the Soviet Union, each consisting of about 60,000 troops, along with smaller battle groups of specialist formations.

Rulebook: Detailed rules including the novel CLIMACS (Conventional Land-warfare, Integrated Movement and Combat System).

Special Units: Airborne, marine, mountain, artillery, rail-gun, rail construction, NKVD, and SS units.

Markers: Army/Front Markers for limited intelligence, where only the top unit in a stack is visible.

How To Setup Trial of Strength: War on the Eastern Front 1941-45

Setting up **Trial of Strength** involves placing the large hexagonal map of Eastern Europe on the playing surface. Players then deploy their units according to the scenario or historical setup, ensuring each side’s forces are correctly positioned. The rulebook provides specific guidelines for initial unit placement, including the distribution of Army/Front Markers to simulate limited intelligence.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Turn Structure: Turns represent approximately 10 days, with three turns per month.

CLIMACS System: Units conduct combat during the movement phase by expending movement points, eliminating the need for a separate combat phase.

Air and Naval Aspects: Simplified rules for air power and naval operations.

Command and Control: Players manage HQ units to roll for initiative and react to enemy movements.

Morale and Supply: Mechanisms for morale rolls, losses, and supply logistics.

Political System: Integrated rules for historical events like Finland’s reticence and the Slovak uprising.

Objective: Players aim to achieve strategic objectives and disrupt the opponent’s supply lines and morale to gain victory.

Player Experience

**Trial of Strength** offers a deep and complex gaming experience, suitable for seasoned wargamers. The game demands strategic thought, initiative, and sound battle planning. Players must navigate the intricacies of the CLIMACS system, manage multiple unit types, and respond to dynamic battlefield conditions. The game’s historical accuracy and detailed mechanics make it a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Pros

Historical Accuracy: Detailed representation of the Eastern Front during WWII.

Complex Gameplay: Engaging and challenging mechanics for experienced wargamers.

Integrated Systems: CLIMACS system integrates movement and combat seamlessly.

Strategic Depth: Requires careful planning and initiative.

Replayability: Multiple scenarios and variable conditions enhance replay value.

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: Complex rules may deter new players.

Time-Consuming: Setup and gameplay can be lengthy.

Limited Visibility: Only the top unit in a stack is visible, adding complexity to strategy.

Personal Thoughts on Trial of Strength: War on the Eastern Front 1941-45

**Trial of Strength** is ideal for dedicated wargamers who appreciate historical accuracy and complex strategy. It is not a game for casual players due to its intricate rules and time-consuming gameplay. For those who enjoy delving deep into the strategic aspects of WWII’s Eastern Front, this game offers a rich and immersive experience that rewards thorough planning and execution. However, it may not be the best fit for those new to wargaming or seeking a quick, light-hearted gaming session.

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